Rare historical micro-mosaic earrings made of 333/8 carat gold and gold-plated silver (stamped, tested and guaranteed).
These rare antique earrings are teardrop-shaped and covered with an onyx disc, each of which features a wonderfully fine micro-mosaic. One earring depicts the Pantheon, the other a side view of the Colosseum. The pretty earrings are framed with a decorative cord frame made of gold-plated silver. The sturdy hook clasps are made of 8 carat gold and were added later.
Micro mosaics, which originated in ancient times, were produced in Rome in the mid-16th century in the Vatican workshops for St. Peter's Basilica. Their special feature was the sophisticated technique that produced a particularly wide range of colours: different glass colours were fused at 800 degrees so that several shades of colour were retained in a single stone. This created effects that would have been impossible with conventional mosaic techniques.
When orders declined, the elaborate technique began to be used for jewellery and small decorative objects. Wearing and giving micro-mosaic jewellery as gifts became popular among wealthy travellers to Italy who visited the historical sites of Europe as part of the Grand Tour.
These historical earrings were created around 1890 and are enchanting pieces of jewellery with a history. Thanks to their elegant design, they can still be combined with many styles of clothing today.
Dimensions of the earrings (with clasps): 4.1 x 1.2 cm.
Dimensions of the onyx disc: 2.4 x 1.0 cm.
Dimensions of the micro mosaics: 1.2 x 0.7 cm.
Weight: 6.9 grams.
Condition: Wonderful historical condition, perfectly preserved, freshly cleaned, see photos.
The earrings come lovingly packaged in one of our high-quality cases and with a certificate of authenticity.
Please note: Vintage and antique jewellery are worn items that may show slight signs of wear due to their history.
